THE man tasked with ensuring that Southport becomes a better place to live believes the resort can prosper, despite huge cutbacks.

Stefan Jankowski, manager of regeneration body the Southport Partnership, says the resort is well placed to ensure continual growth regardless of public spending cuts.

Southport, one of the top beneficiaries of state and EU investment over the past decade, must now look to the private sector to drive the town forward.

Stefan, whose partnership has helped transform Southport into the vibrant resort it is today, revealed how a string of retailers and developers are eyeing up the town as a place to invest.

He said: “Southport has always been attractive to private sector investors and we need to carry on that good work and get our name out.

“In the South, where a lot of money lies, there’s still this idea that Southport is sleepy little seaside town. We need to get people up here to see just what a fabulous place it is.

“Once people are here they realise just how unique Southport is and how much we have to offer.

“I’d certainly say we’re a step ahead of most other towns in terms of trying to source private sector investment. We’ve always had is a history of successful marketing.

“Southport needs to access funding wherever it can, be it via the Government’s new Regional Growth Fund or any other new initiatives. “However one thing is certain – the scale of future public funding will be only a fraction of what we have accessed in the past”

The Southport Partnership has played a pivotal role in the development of the Marine Way bridge, Chapel Street, Splashworld, Nevill Street and Lord Street improvements.

On its agenda now is ensuring funding is sourced for King’s Gardens transformation, the 700-home Kew housing scheme is delivered and increased business is brought to Southport Commerce Park.

Critically, Stefan maintains that the £40m delivery of the much-delayed Marine Park scheme – where New Pleasureland stands – will happen in time, while he is convinced that the empty Waterfront retail units on the Promenade will be filled in the short-term.

Perhaps most importantly, however, is a consultants’ report into where and how much new retail space is practicable to build in Southport.

It is expected to look at several potential development sites, including in and around Southport train station. There is already considerable interest from well-known brands to open in the town centre.

Stefan said: “In terms of attracting retailers we are outperforming most of the country. There is significant levels of interest from retailers to come to Southport.

“We have always punched above our weight and we know there’s a significant number of modern retailers that are looking to move in.”